ISLAMABAD (Kashmir English): The National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) has issued an alert over extreme weather conditions prevailing in different parts of the country in light of the heavy rainfall, thunderstorms, strong winds, flash floods, and landslides occurring from July 19 to 23 as an active monsoon season takes place.
According to NDMA, enhanced monsoon currents coming through the Arabian Sea in connection with the western weather system are expected to bring rain in most parts of AJK, Gilgit-Baltistan, KP, Islamabad and Punjab with a threat of urban and riverine floods.
Heavy Rainfall in Northern Pakistan
The highest amount of rainfall is expected in various districts of AJK such as Muzaffarabad, Neelum Valley, Rawalakot, Poonch, Bagh, Kotli, Bhimber and Mirpur.
In the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province, heavy rainfall will take place in Peshawar, Swat, Chitral, Upper and Lower Dir, Kohistan, Abbottabad, Mansehra, Mardan, Nowshera and other tribal districts.
Moderate to heavy rainfall will also occur in Gilgit-Baltistan comprising Gilgit, Skardu, Hunza, Astore, Diamer, Ghizer, Ghanche and Shigar districts.
Urban Flooding in Islamabad, Lahore and Peshawar
NDMA has issued an alert regarding urban flooding in Islamabad, Rawalpindi, Lahore and Peshawar due to heavy rains.
Other main cities including Gujranwala, Sialkot, Faisalabad and Multan may also witness waterlogging, overflowing drainage and road blockages from July 20 to July 23, respectively. Low-lying areas, underpasses and drainage-congested roads are likely to be most affected by such floods.
Swollen Rivers and Streams
Another warning has been issued about swollen waters in Chenab, Jhelum and Kabul rivers along with flash floods in surrounding streams and nullahs in Kashmir, Islamabad, KP, Gilgit-Baltistan, northeast Punjab and some areas of Baluchistan.
People residing near rivers, streams and flood-hit areas have been advised to stay vigilant and comply with evacuation orders.
Landslides in Hilly Regions
Due to incessant rains, there are chances of landslides, falling rocks and mudslides in upper Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Gilgit-Baltistan, Kashmir, Murree and Galiyat.
The NDMA has warned that roads and highways in hilly regions may experience blockages during July 20-25.
